History
In 1958 a group of concerned citizens formed the Indian River Mental Health Clinic in Ft. Pierce to meet the needs of people with emotional and mental health disorders. Through the years, the organization has evolved to met the ever changing needs of the community and in the process has experienced many changes including names and locations.
1960's
In 1963 with the passing of the National Mental Retardation Facility/Community Mental Health Center Construction Act, federal funds were available for the construction of a comprehensive community mental health center. Community and mental health leaders worked diligently to prepare an application for federal funding and in 1968 they received $240,000 to build a mental health center.
1970's
Fort Pierce Memorial Hospital Board donated land on Avenue H to build the new facility and the name was changed to Indian River Community Mental Health Center, Inc. On September 7, 1971 the new center was officially opened providing outpatient, inpatient and partial hospitalization services. The early 1970’s were a time of tremendous growth. Satellite offices were opened in Stuart, Vero Beach and Okeechobee. In 1974, alcoholism services including detoxification and outpatient counseling were offered for the first time. Throughout the late 1970’s and early1980’s programs and services were expanded to include therapeutic foster care, children’s day treatment, forensic services, and community support programs for the chronically mentally ill.
1980's
The Center expanded to offer additional programs and services throughout the 1980’s. After managing services for AlcoHope, Inc. for two years, the Center purchased their facility in 1988. Group homes to serve the chronically mentally ill were also opened. In 1989 the Center changed its name to New Horizons of the Treasure Coast, Inc. in an effort to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and to reflect the diversity of services provided.
1990's
During the 1990’s, legislators and the community became aware that the demand for services was exceeding the capacity of the crisis stabilization unit. private fund raising and a legislative appropriation enabled New Horizons to open a new Emergency Treatment Center on Midway Road in 1997 to serve all Treasure Coast residents.
New Millennium
We continue to add programs. The 20-bed Frances Langford Center for Children opened on September 15, 2010. This desperately needed children's crisis tabilization unit serves children and adolescents in our 4-county area of service.
